We had been on the road for a few months, and I was starting to get the hang of full-time RV travel. I knew what to expect at county parks, state parks, national parks and private campgrounds.
But boondocking? I had no idea what that was. It sounded…scary.
If you haven’t traveled in an RV, you may not know what boondocking is! Your dog has no clue either. But you will both find out it is one of the most enjoyable camping experiences you will ever have.
We were planning a trip to Capitol Reef National Park in Utah, but the campground there is first-come, first-serve.
We knew we were taking a big chance on finding a campsite that was available. And when we got there, we saw the sign. “Campground is full.”
My heart sunk. Not for me, and our inconvenience. But I was upset about disappointing the dogs. I remembered on the Capitol Reef National Park website, “dispersed camping available outside of park.” Dispersed camping, wild camping and dry camping are also terms for boondocking.
Boondocking means you will be parking your house on wheels without the perks of hookups. Hookups can include electricity, water and sewer. But because you are fortunate to have a house on wheels, with the right preparation, you may find out this is your new favorite way of camping with your dog!
Brickle and Digby’s List Of Why You Have To Go Boondocking With Your Dog
Less rules. We all want to be respectful of others when camping with our dogs. But many private campgrounds and even state parks have breed restrictions, barking rules and weight restrictions. It goes without saying that keeping your dog on a leash is beneficial for wildlife and other dogs who may not be social. You have to keep that in mind, even when boondocking. But you’ll find that you will be more relaxed and therefore, your dog will be too!
Campfire cooking. When the persons don’t have electricity, their daily chores like cooking and washing the dishes are done outside to save space in tanks. That means doing all activities together!
Less cell service in remote areas. If you are boondocking in remote areas, more than likely, there will be no cell service. The exception to this for us has been outside the national parks! We usually get a better signal there! Less cell service, more time with the dogs!
The Persons List Of Why You Need To Go Boondocking With Your Dogs
The best campsites. Let’s face it. Sometimes the experience of camping can be ruined by noisy neighbors or overcrowded campgrounds. We have found that boondocking gives us a nice break with more privacy. Watching the stars at night without the lights of a city is one of the experiences of boondocking you can’t beat.
Saves money. Boondocking is usually free. And in certain parks without hookups, you will get a substantial discount. If you have to park in a parking lot overnight, some retail locations allow this. Make sure to ask management before doing this.
Rest. In some states, rest areas or pull offs are available for one night free. If you’re travel weary, our favorite boondocking spots like this are in the state of Texas.
Camping doesn’t have to be expensive. And although the freedom of fulltime RV life is great, planning can be great too. You will need to fill up your water tank, make sure your generator is equipped and working, and or solar power. Be prepared with enough food for you and the dogs, flashlights and candles just in case. Be mindful of running your generator when others are sleeping.
Boondocking doesn’t mean being to do anything you want at the expense of others. But it does offer more options and time with your dogs.
Be safe and don’t leave your dogs when boondocking due to no security or weather conditions. Who wants to leave them anyway? You have to take your dog boondocking!
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